AUTHOR'S NOTE: This is it. The chapter you've all been waiting for. I won't say much more right now, but this chapter was a lot of fun to make. Also, at the same time, partially annoying because I had to use YouTube to get the scenes. Technically you can't begin the romance till after the Archon's ship. Another thing, I think this is a pretty good way to celebrate reaching 40k views! Fucking hell that's a lot! Not to mention the 100 followers, 86 favorites, and 101 reviews (which have pretty much all been overwhelmingly positive.) My thanks to you all, never expected that my story would go as far as it has! So, that's all for this author's note. They'll be another at the end of the chapter. Hope you enjoy!

I woke the next morning relatively leisurely. Showered, got dressed, had breakfast. No sense of urgency, Essentially, I was just trying to buy time waiting for something to happen, something that could potentially be just what I'm looking for. I was sitting in the mess, my meal finished, thinking about what we were going to do.

"Pathfinder, there is an Outcast officer waiting outside the ship. She is requesting to speak with you," SAM informed. One of the Outcasts? That's odd.

"Can you tell me what she's armed with?" I requested. I didn't want to open the cargo bay doors just to be shot.

"She has left a pistol and a knife in plain sight on the ground in front of her. I detect no other weapons on her," SAM answered. Huh. Even more surprising.

"All right, I'll be right there," I murmured, standing from my seat and heading to the cargo bay. The doors began to open, and I strode out. Call me paranoid, but I still used my biotics to form a light barrier around me. Though it shouldn't be detected by anyone.

"Finally, there you are," the Asari woman muttered. "Sloane wants you to come to the HQ. Alone. She wants your help."

"Forgive my caution, but why wouldn't Sloane call me over comms or something?" I questioned.

"Because it's sensitive and she doesn't want to risk someone listening in. You coming or not?" the Asari crossed her arms over her chest. I glanced to the side thoughtfully for a split second as I came to a decision.

"Yeah, I'll see what she has to say," I nodded. With a wave of her hand, the Asari gestured for me to follow her. Not like I didn't know where we were going, anyway. The guards at the Outcast HQ didn't stop any of us, letting us pass without hassle. Sloane was waiting on her chair in the throne room, speaking with a few trusted advisors at her side, leaning forward. They all went silent as we entered. Though the Asari who led me simply wandered off to the side of the room.

"Leave us," Sloane ordered with a flick of her head. Her advisors and the Asari did as told. As the last left through the door, I spoke.

"Take it someone pissed you off," I remarked.

"The Charlatan used my own people to beat up Kaetus. He's alive. Barely," she explained. Was that a hint of nervousness creeping into her voice? I suppose this, plus their two actions when dealing with the Kett confirm that suspicion. Kaetus is more than her right-hand man. And I have a few ideas as to just where that right hand goes. I can feel sympathetic with Sloane here. This kind of tactic doesn't surprise me with the Collective, yet I still feel some disappointment.

"My condolences. But, why did they target him?" I questioned.

"I didn't call you here for a pity party," Sloane murmured.

"Just why did you call me? I know that on a list of people you don't like, I'm kinda high up there," I remarked.

"The Charlatan left a note on Kaetus. He wants to 'settle things' between us. Meet in a cave in Draullir," Sloane answered.

"Which certainly doesn't sound sketchy," I shrugged.

"Putting it mildly. Right now, I can't trust my own people. You? You're an outsider. And… honorable." Well, she knows I'm not exactly in her camp. And I know that I'm not in full approval of Collective methods. But… damn it, the status quo is not one I can accept. I stalled a bit, asking why the Charlatan would act now. She explained how she ignored them for too long, underestimating them. She wants to end it now. "You with me?" she asked. Well, I can be there for it, and decide what I do on the way…

"I'll go," I nodded.

"Kadara's fate will be decided at this meeting. I was hoping it wouldn't come to this, but… hey, shit happens, right? Meet me at these coordinates, you can brief your team or whatever. I don't care," Sloane murmured.

"Yeah, I'll go get suited up," I nodded. Well, It's Hiiiiiiiiiiiiiigh nooooooooooooon.


I was driving the Nomad to the coordinates Sloane provided. With me, Drack, Jaal, and Vetra.

"So, I need opinions. Thoughts, whatever. If I have to choose in there, Sloane, or the Charlatan?" I questioned.

"I can't claim to be a fan of either side. In the grand scheme, I want it to be back with the Angara. But, one step at a time," Jaal muttered.

"I don't like Tann or Sloane that much, but she did betray the Initiative. Loyalty counts. Not to mention she has a bone to pick with the Initiative. As for the Charlatan, I can't say I trust someone who hides like they do," Drack grumbled.

"Honestly, while I can't say I like all their methods, the Collective is probably going to be better in the long run for both Kadara and the Initiative. If we want an outpost here, they are a much safer bet than Sloane. If we want to do business, again, much safer bet than Sloane. I don't know what their intentions are for the port itself, but given what we've seen in the slums…" Vetra shrugged.

"Yeah… been thinking the same. Maybe this is all for naught, that I won't even need to make a decision and it'll just sort itself out…" I murmured.

"You don't believe that," Drack remarked.

"Heh, no, no I don't," I half smirked.

The rest of the ride was in silence, until we pulled up to the cave marked at the coordinates. There was a shuttle waiting, and as the Nomad approached, a lone figure, Sloane, stepped out. A hand on her hip, waiting.

"Took your sweet time," Sloane complained. Not really helping her case here. "Come on, let's get this over with." Sloane led us inside the cave. A well-lit open area in the center, an opening in the cavern roof. Ahead, a ledge, and to the right, deeper in the cavern, not nearly as well lit, plenty of stalagmites and stalactites. We looked around, didn't seem like anyone was here.

"You look like you're waiting for someone…" No… that voice, that phrase, holy fucking shit. Reyes stepped out from the shadows at the ledge above. Now that I did not see coming. I didn't even know what to say as we stared at him.

"I'm here for the Charlatan, not some third-rate smuggler," Sloane growled.

"Yeah, they're one and the same," I murmured.

"Surprise," Reyes shrugged.

"So, just what was, well, everything? You've been lying the whole time? Cause I honestly have no idea what to fucking say right now," I questioned.

"Not the whole time…" Reyes murmured, glancing down. A bit of shame? Acting? What?

"You said you wanted to 'settle things.' How?" Sloane got to the point.

"A duel. You, me, right now. Winner takes the port," Reyes answered, jumping down from the ledge, and patting the carnifex on his thigh.

"Prevent a full-on war by the leaders duking it out," I mused.

"Better for everyone this way," Reyes shrugged.

"Except for whoever loses," Jaal muttered. Still, I doubt he would prefer a true war between the factions.

"I'll take those terms," Sloane smirked. She was confident.

But so was Reyes.

Reyes and Sloane both clenched their hands by their pistols. Then slowly began walking in a circle. Perfectly on opposite sides of said circle. Reyes had his back to the deeper portion of the cave now, Sloane's back to-wait, was that? A glint in the darkness. A skeptic would say it could be a crystal or something else. But anyone with a shred of common sense would tell you right then and there, that was the glint of a sniper's scope. Do I jump, push Sloane out of the way? Do I risk my life for her? Even if I don't take a bullet, I don't think I'd be able to shoot Reyes. He still feels like a friend. Despite me not exactly knowing what was and wasn't a lie. And if he gets away, that means it's war. Just as I made my decision, a loud bang ringed echoed through the cavern. And Sloane slumped to her knees, letting out a final breath, and then fell to the ground, dead. Well, at least the choice made for me was the one I had just made.

"Bang," Reyes smirked, shooting a finger gun at her, then blowing away the imaginary smoke. I admit. I feel a bit guilty. I could have saved her, but did she really deserve to be saved? "Get her out of here," Reyes ordered his sniper, who had just joined us. "Prepare the crew. Kadara port is ours tonight." Reyes began walking down another passage in the cave, tapping me on the shoulder to follow.

"Guess you got everything you wanted," I remarked. A bit uneasily.

"What I want, is peace," Reyes retorted. "Sloane would have brought war to Heleus. We don't have the population to survive that."

"Is Reyes even your real name?" I questioned, a bit annoyed.

"It's what my mother called me," he answered, then stopped, sighed, and turned. His head lowered slightly. "It's my real name. I lied about being the Charlatan because I didn't want those rumors to taint your view of me."

"Which ones in particular? There's a few I'm having trouble dispelling," I crossed my arms over my chest.

"What I did in there, I did for good reason. I know I'm not as fast a draw as she was. If I died, everything the Collective does in the slums, Charybdis point now, thanks to you, wouldn't last long. And there would have been war. Losing honor was a fair price to pay," Reyes defended. "Kaetus? We had to ensure Sloane would answer the challenge. Not continue to ignore us." I sighed, pinched the bridge of my nose.

"I… can't say I agree, but I also can't blame you. There are worse reasons," I murmured. "So, what now?"

"I get to work. Kadara Port won't take itself," Reyes shrugged.

"And just who is going to be in control? It's an Angaran port, it deserves to be back with the Angara," I stated.

"Remember Keema Dorghun? She'll be the one in the throne. I can't run the city, and I still prefer the anonymity. She will essentially have free reign, and we agree on most things anyway. If I have a suggestion she disagrees with, well, she's always managed to convince me so far," he explained.

"And the plans for the Port?" I questioned.

"First and foremost, the protection fees will stop immediately. All the non-violent exiles will be allowed to return to the port at any time. And we will work on stopping the violent ones. We'll improve conditions in the slums. Maybe digging out some caves to build some actual houses or apartments," Reyes answered, "And there is one more thing:

With Sloane gone, there's room for the Initiative on Kadara. No strings attached. I want it just as much as you do. It will have my full protection, and you don't need to hand over even a fraction of a percent of what it produces. THAT, is a promise. And I don't break my promises," he reinforced.

Alright, I think I can believe that.

"Thanks, Reyes," I nodded. He smiled, and held out his hand. I shook.

"Now, I do have to go be a part of the transition. You go and pick out a good spot. Next time you come to port, it'll be under new management," Reyes remarked.


I finished typing my message to Addison and read it over once more.

Kadara Port has had a regime change. Sloane Kelly is dead, and the Outcasts are out of power. The Port is essentially under Angaran control, working closely with the Collective faction. They offer their full protection if we were to establish an outpost. For no cost to the Initiative. Simply that we be willing to trade. Coordinates are embedded within the message, as well as any geographical information you may need.

Content with the message, I hit send. The Nomad was parked at the outpost site, and we were all standing around. Drack had plopped himself in the water, and Jaal had removed his boots, testing the water with his feet. Vetra had been on a call. I overheard the end of it.

"You realize that even if I do find it, it's going to cost you," a man reminded her.

"And you know I'm always true to my word, so just get it done," Vetra retorted, and ended the call. I wandered my way over to her. "You feel it? Scott? Back on the Nexus, Aya, even? People aren't afraid like they used to be. The Kett, Exiles, Heleus itself," she trailed off "The Kett used to be terrifying. But after Eos, Voeld, even, everyone knows they're not so tough."

"True enough. Though Kett didn't sound like what you were discussing," I prodded.

"Wasn't. I have a friend keeping a lookout for a lamp. One brought from home, but stolen in the revolt," Vetra answered.

"Didn't know you were so sentimental," I smirked.

"Not the only one," Vetra retorted, a glint in her eyes, calling me out. "Suvi has her father's antique instruments. Cora has her Asari prayer book. Liam has… that junk he collects. And you have your dad's armor. These things are important. They remind us of where we come from," Vetra murmured thoughtfully.

"Yeah. I never want to forget what I left behind. Who I left behind…" I nodded.

"Even as we look forward to the future," Vetra grinned. She slowly began walking, me following, to a rock on the coastline of the lake.

"So, what's so special about this lamp?" I questioned.

"It's awful," Vetra chuckled. "It's got this butt-naked Asari for the stand, and she's holding… a moon."

"Well, that is… ugly. What makes it a prized possession?" I asked with a smirk.

"The foreman at my first job had the lamp. When he was a dick, I'd focus on it so he wouldn't see me upset. Now I keep it so I remember where I started," Vetra explained. "Most of my life was doing stuff to survive, taking shit from assholes, or… being one," she admitted, a bit of shame in her eyes. She turned and looked back at me, "I don't have to do that anymore. I can start over. Something honest," Vetra grinned.

"Heh, Vetra Nyx, Farmer. I'll believe it when I see it," I chuckled, "But do you really want to start over? In that way, at least?" I asked.

"I don't know," she shrugged, genuine uncertainty, but not any real concern about it, "Point is, I have the choice of changing if I wanted to," Vetra turned to look out at the lake again, "For a while, I didn't care that I'd lost the lamp. Everything was a mess and it… just didn't matter," I stood to her side, "But we've made progress, Scott. Small things matter again. People are daring to dream," Vetra continued, she wasn't able to hide the smile shining through. She was daring to dream too. I'm glad I was able to do that for her.

"It's nice seeing you like this," I grinned. Well, it's nice seeing her like… almost anything, really.

"I know. I like being able to let go and do something for myself for once," she mused, "Let's hope this is just the start, huh? What about you? Anything you're hoping or dreaming for?" she asked, turning to look at me.

"I think my dream is… finding someone special to explore the galaxy with," I answered. Ooh, there's that feeling in my chest again.

"Oh?" Vetra held her hands behind her back, looking out at the lake, slightly changing her stance, and… is she learning closer to me? You know, I'm feeling more at ease than I have before, when that feeling surfaces, "And have you found this person?"

"I'm pretty sure I have," I smiled. Her head swiveled slightly to look at me. Was that a very small flash of concern? "You'll love her. She's tall. Great with guns, and getting people to do what she wants," I described. Vetra faced out towards the lake again, her mandibles flaring once more, and she let out a breath. I think she knows. And… I'm starting to think the feeling is mutual. Vetra chuckled. God, I love her laugh.

"Hey, while we wait for the Outpost, remember my offer of a rock climb?" Vetra asked.

'Yeah, got a spot?"

"Yeah, yeah I do. Not too far," Vetra answered.

"Alright, let's do it."


I had a good feeling about this. When Scott told me he had found the woman he was dreaming of exploring the galaxy with, I thought it was over and done. But then he described her… that sounded an awful lot like me. Yeah, I still can't know for sure, but it helps. I haven't felt as at ease as I did at the end of that conversation in a long, long time.

Jaal and Drack were fine staying at the outpost site for a while longer. They had guns, they had their armor. And Charybdis point was just up the hill. Scott has allowed me to drive us to the spot I picked out for our climb, and we had just arrived. He had gotten a message back from Addison. The Outpost had come as a surprise, and she was preparing a block now. Despite Tann's bitching. Should take them two hours to prepare, and another six to arrive.

"So, guessing it's out of the question for any safety clips, harnesses, whatever the hell," Scott remarked.

"Pathfinder Scott Ryder," I chuckled teasingly, "You disappointed me. Don't tell me you're afraid of heights."

"Nah, I'm afraid of falling down a cliff-face," Scott smirked. No, should be fine, that regard at least. Should we leave the armor behind? Lighten our load?"

"Well," I began, taking a closer look at the mountain side, grabbing on to test. "The jump jet is going to be our safety measure, but DON'T use it just to climb. This is us having fun, climbing the old-fashioned way. Don't be a cheat," I chuckled my warning, "Gauntlets, should help your grip, keep any rocks from scratching your soft, fragile, fleshy hands. Same with the boots and greaves," I explained, "Besides, don't be a baby, you're wearing your Pathfinder armor, mine's heavier."

"Fair enough," Scott shrugged.

"Here, this looks like a good spot for you to start. Lot of rocks, bigger ones. Plenty of places to grab and plant your feet," I suggested, moving so that my route would be slightly harder, but I've handled much worse.

"Why thank you, madam," Scott teased. I bowed mockingly, and he moved to test out the area I left for him. I was reminded of a concern I still had. Reyes.

"Be careful with him, Scott," I warned. He sighed.

"Trying to. I want to believe him, I do. What he's saying he wants for Kadara, I want too. But that still came as a fastball. And a big one," he murmured.

"He May have been the better choice for the Initiative, sure. For now, at least. But we got a show of just how well he can lie, and how big he can make the lie," I warned. "Keep an eye on him."

"Yeah…" Scott sighed. I felt sorry for putting his train of thought back there. He's clearly conflicted. This was supposed to be relaxing.

"No more business talk, I promise. Come on, let's get climbing. View should be great up there," I suggested.

We began at the same time, courtesy of a countdown I gave. He was a few feet to my right, so I doubt either of us are going to worry about getting in each other's way. And for his sake, I wasn't going as fast as I could. I'd stay ahead of him, but I wouldn't end up leaving Scott in the dust. I kept my breathing controlled, and did everything in my power so that each pull, each lift, consumed as little energy as possible. Normally, I'd expect that Scott would be feeling the burn, and a lot more burn much sooner than I would. But with SAM… I don't really know. I suppose that doesn't really matter as much however. So long as we make it.

Not sure if it was because we'd been climbing a while, which I doubt, if it's that this region of Kadara already has a high altitude, or even if the clouds here are lower, but eventually, we ended up with our heads in the clouds. Literally. It was even managing to block the view of the ground from us. I had spent just about the entire climb so far, several feet, yards, even, ahead of Scott. But always within ear and eye shot. His breathing was growing heavier, but it didn't sound like it was close to the level I'd call exhaustion. We can keep going, and we should be close now too.

"You were right, the view is great from up here," Scott remarked. I looked down, his head was turned outward, both hands still clinging onto the rock. I released my grip with one, as both legs were firmly planted on an outcrop, and my other arm was secure. I left my right arm dangling as I turned my torso outward enough to give myself a good view. With the sun still rising, all the other mountains and the landscape, yeah, it was pretty good.

"We're not even to the top yet. Come on, I'll race you," I smirked.

"What? We haven't been racing this whole time?" Scott groaned.

"Nope, that was just a leisurely stroll," I teased.

"Ugh… Heh, maybe give me some motivation. What do I get if I win?" he asked with a smirk, and a glint in his eyes. My body and my arm were already back on the rock face, ready to continue climbing. Keeping my grin internal, I looked down.

"What would you like?" I asked playfully. Scott had a sly grin, keeping the same glint, his eyes on me, as he readied himself to continue climbing.

"The bad guy defeated, a magic sword…" he began pulling himself up. "And the girl?" he ended casually. I grinned internally again. But… still, there was that doubt. That damn doubt. I continued my own climb.

"Good thing you're losing, then. I don't have a magic sword," I teased. The ledge was in sight. Just a little further. And he's still behind. Heh, if not for the tux flaps on the back of my armor, he'd have a decent show the whole way up. My hands grasped the top of the ledge, and I pulled myself up. Scott was just behind me, I could see the sweat from here. I was sure he'd make it. And he hasn't used the jump-jet. He passed that test. I stepped away from the ledge, glancing around the area and took a deep breath. This is it… isn't it?


Oh… God… Jesus… Christ… Mother...Fucker… FINALLY! My hand reached the top of the ledge, my breathing heavy and labored, sweat practically pouring down my face. My arms, legs, stomach, all burning. And I lost the race. I was so tempted to use the Jump-jet but… no, she wanted to do this the old-fashioned way. I wasn't going to ruin that for her. I could see her a yard or so away on the top of the mountain, just turning to see me barely pull myself up, and roll over flat on my back, looking up at the sky. I used my feet to push me a bit further from the edge. I took a deep breath, it was over.

"Having fun?" Vetra asked teasingly with a heavy breath of her own. Least I'm not the only one feeling it. I kept my eyes closed, and instead raised up my right hand, the middle finger raised. "You look like you're having fun," she chuckled. I heard her lay down beside me. I opened my eye slightly, she was just to my right, looking at me. A concerned, no, nervous look in her emerald eyes. "Hey…" She looked up, and both my eyes were open. "Is this real?"

"Yeah, I think the sky's real," I joked. It was an empty joke though. I could feel that feeling in my chest again.

"No," she breathed. "This. How you are towards me. Specifically. It's like you… care, more than a friend," she murmured. The back of her hand brushed against the back of mine. Almost… longingly. Well, this is it. I let out a deep breath myself. "I don't mind if it's no," she continued, I could hear, feel, even, the sadness hidden in that. "I just want to be sure. It gets messy otherwise…" I turned my head to look at her. And she turned her's slightly. I took her hand in mine, and grasped it tight, and she did the same.

"Yeah… I do care about you. More than a friend…" I answered quietly. Not even a remote air of joke, sarcasm, tease, anything. Just sincerity. She turned her head more. Her eyes wide.

"Really? I didn't want to assume. It seemed so unlike-" Ok, time to shut us both up before we get into an awkward, babbling mess. The solution? Well, it just came naturally. I sat up and leaned over Vetra, my left arm gently grabbing onto her hip, and I closed my eyes, my lips against hers. They certainly didn't feel like human lips, not fleshy enough. But it didn't feel bad by any stretch. That feeling in my chest was exploding, not to mention that feeling of my 'third leg,' so to speak. Down boy! I moved my head back, still above hers.

"And how's that for proving it?" I asked quietly, my eyes gazing into hers, even through her visor.

"I'm convinced," she smiled. She reached her hand behind my head and pulled me back down to her. This time, as our lips connected, her's opened. I knew what that meant, and I opened my own, our tongues dancing. Hers was longer than mine, which felt weird, and it was also a bit larger. Also weird. But not in a bad way. Just… different, I suppose is a better word. I felt pretty goddamn happy. All in basically one fell swoop, I learned that the girl I had been crushing on also had feelings for me, we had our first kiss, and then our first makeout session. Our hands explored each other, though in armor, I don't think either of us felt much of each other's hands. Though for both of us, they had remained pretty much exclusively to either the head, the sides, and maybe the outer thigh. We stayed like that for… not sure how long, just getting lost in each other's presence. The last time I felt this way, let alone with a woman, would have been one of the last times I ever saw Laura. Normally, the mere thought would have saddened me. But now, it was just pushed back. My mind refusing to have this be ruined. Not to mention the whole-

"Pathfinder," SAM spoke in our private channel. I shot back eyes wide, falling onto my side, arms flailing. I sat straight up, Vetra incredibly confused right next to me.

"JEEZ-LOUEEZ WHAT THE FUCK!?" I exclaimed. Vetra cocked her head to the side, concerned. Better clear this up. "SAM! DO NOT! FUCKING! DO THAT!" Vetra's eyes widened in understanding. She began laughing, but still had her mandibles flaring in a blush, like a bit of embarrassment. I know I must be beet red. I sighed and leaned forward, head on my forehead. "What is it?" I asked calmly.

"When Peebee went to meet the Exiles who took her Remnant technology, someone hacked their way into the Tempest," SAM explained.

"What?! What did they take?" I questioned, growing serious. Vetra sat up wondering what happened.

"They only took Poc, and left behind the technology, and a recorded message" SAM answered.

"Funny idea for a trade," I murmured. "Sorry for lashing out SAM, you just scared the shit out of me. If you need to get my attention when there's a… moment, have my Omni-tool ring like there's a call," I requested.

"Acknowledged." Was his simple reply.

"Guess we both forgot we had a third wheel," Vetra chuckled. "What happened?"

"Someone snuck onto the Tempest," I sighed. "Took Poc, left that tech Peebee wanted."

"Well she's not gonna be happy. We should probably get back to the other's," Vetra murmured.

"Yeah, go see how the port is doing, I guess," I muttered. It seems neither of us wants to go.

"Sid is gonna flip her shit…" Vetra chuckled.

"Well, she had already figured me out. Hell, so did Lexi, Jaal, Peebee, Sarah. Pretty sure Drack did," I remarked awkwardly.

"And I didn't? Spirits, they are going to give us so much shit," Vetra groaned.

"I don't know. People don't seem to be giving Peebee or Jaal much," I shrugged.

"Yeah, but no one really saw it coming, and it wasn't really going on for that long before it happened," Vetra countered.

"Well… then let them talk shit. I don't really care what any of them have to say about… us," I chuckled awkwardly.

"Hm, yeah, I don't think I do either," Vetra grinned. "Hey, so Turians aren't able to have quick, small kisses like humans, so," Vetra grabbed the back of my head and pulled it towards her gently and pressed her forehead against mine, her eyes were closed, and she let out a breath. She opened her eyes, gazing into mine. "That's how Turians do it." I gave her a look, still smiling. "Oh, fine," she chuckled, and we shared one more kiss. It didn't last too long, but it was still a good one. And so began our climb back down.


To say that Peebee was distressed over her bot would be an understatement. And the message left behind certainly didn't help her. While it was technically addressed to me, it was clearly meant to mock and insult Peebee. Kalinda, the woman we met on the Nexus, was apparently in control of the exiles who'd been trying to take the Rem-tech. I asked Peebee why Kalinda is so obsessed with her. She hesitantly revealed… well, I was surprised.

Back in the Milky Way, Kalinda was born to a high-class family with a lot of influence. They met, and she was Peebee's window into a more… sophisticated and elite lifestyle. She had become infatuated, and for a time had believed Kalinda felt the same.

Except again and again, Kalinda would degrade Peebee. Verbally. Mocking her to her friends, insulting her, so on and so forth. And I know Peebee enjoys banter so the odds that it was being taken the wrong way? Slim to none.

Peebee would break off, only to be drawn back by hollow apologies and promises soon broken. Then came the Initiative, and the last straw, which Peebee didn't want to talk about, where she finally broke off for good. And Kalinda had lost her toy.

She's obsessed with control, and now she can't control Peebee anymore. So, she's trying to manipulate her a different way. Unfortunately, there's not much else we can do rather than to play her game. Right now, that means find Poc. She can't complete the scanner without pieces in the bot. Peebee tried apologizing that we were getting caught up in this. That she'd take care of it on her own. I wouldn't hear any of it. We'd help gladly.

As for the port itself, they were working hard at re-branding it as a "free port" now. Apparently, once Sloane was dead, Reyes had signaled sleeper agents for a coup. According to what I could overhear, there were plenty, and all seemed to be positioned perfectly. The fighting was kept within the Outcast HQ, but even then, it was minimal, quick, and efficient. It certainly wasn't a bloodless coup, but to Kadara's standards of bloody, it may as well be. The Outcasts who surrendered were spared, and given a choice. Those who refused, were cuffed and taken away. I have little doubt of their fates. The same choice was then broadcast along Outcast channels. Surrender, and they can come and live in the port. Fight, and a fight will be what they get.

My crew now all knew the Charlatan's identity. While no one tried to argue that I should have saved Sloane, everyone either had no opinion, like Peebee and Liam, while the rest had their own little warnings and cautions. Cora? That he murdered Sloane in cold blood. That we can't forget what he is. I see her point, but a part of me wants to argue that if he told me the truth about why he did it, that it couldn't truly be that cold. Drack told me that it's hard to trust someone who can fool everyone, but shrugged it off saying that he doesn't have to trust him. Jaal just still hates this place and doesn't trust anyone here. And Vetra already told me her concerns before our climb. Speaking of who… where'd she get off to? I mean, I don't exactly have anything to occupy me until the Outpost arrives.

Vetra was, in fact, at the docking area just by our ship, with a small mound of supplies. Looking at the labels, not the kind of stuff I'd suspect we need. She had her back turned to where I was. I smirked to myself and kept quiet. I wouldn't go and grab her at the shoulders, hips, anything. After all, we only started a few hours ago, but I did suddenly appear to her side, my back to the crates, leaning against them, and my hands holding me up.

"Watch out for those crates," she warned, not even fazed. "Fragile stuff."

"Aaaaaaand not touching. I touched nothing," I muttered.

"Oh, I know," Vetra chuckled a bit awkwardly. "Just in case you wanted to take a seat or something."

"What? You'd think they'll break it if I sat down? What are you saying about my weight?" I questioned, mock offense in my voice.

"Oh, I don't know. You tell me, Scott. We have had a few extra rations go missing," Vetra shrugged.

"Yeah, yeah," I chuckled. "So, what's in em?"

"Supplies for the outpost. Trade goods. That kind of stuff. Only one of these crates will even be going on the Tempest. The rest will head down to the Outpost when it gets here. Heh, wouldn't have minded hearing Tann's reaction to the news," Vetra snickered.

"I'm sure he's already blaming me and calling me all kinds of names. To himself, at least," I remarked.

"Plenty of choice words, I'm sure," Vetra smirked. It went silent, neither of us really knowing what to say. And I think we both felt like we needed to say… well… something. Instead, I got a call. Lexi.

"Scott, would you come to the med-bay please? I've finished my examination of the Kett corpse, and want to speak with Jaal about the results. You being there will likely help him," Lexi requested.

"Sure, I'll be right there," I nodded, and the call ended.

"See you, Scott," Vetra smiled, and continued checking the crates. I think I should probably have a chat with Lexi when the thing with Jaal is done.

I arrived in the ship's med-bay. Lexi was, of course, inside, as was Jaal, who's back was turned to the door. All were looking over the Kett body that lay, it's torso with a large cut down the middle stitched back together. Lexi saw me enter and nodded, a sign of appreciation for coming.

"Jaal, look at these scans. I've searched the genes of every different kind of cell in the body. I can only find a sliver of the Angaran genome. I'm afraid that the Exalted ARE Kett. Entirely," Lexi explained solemnly.

"But… there must be a way," Jaal muttered. He must have known I entered, yet was too focused. He turned to look at me. "There must be a way, yes?"

"I… I don't know…" I murmured. "Honestly, I don't see how exaltation is even physically possible in the first place. Changing someone's entire genome, changing their body, all in one fell swoop? I… I just don't know. Just… if anyone would be even remotely close to knowing how to reverse the process, it's probably the Kett. And they wouldn't exactly be looking for a way to turn back," I answered, shaking my head. "I want to believe. I do, but…" I shrugged, letting out a breath.

"Damn it…" Jaal murmured. "I need to be alone," he turned on a dime and left. Lexi let out a saddened sigh.

"Thanks for supporting me there. I know it couldn't be easy, but trust me, it's what Jaal needed to hear," Lexi explained.

"Yeah. False hope only ever hurts you. Still, just… damn," I replied quietly.

"I understand. I should probably dispose of the body before it starts to smell. Leave it in the airlock by the bridge in a body bag, seal the airlock, and once we return to orbit, send it out," Lexi remarked.

"Sure. Uh, would you mind coming to my quarters when you're done? I… have something I want to talk to you about," I requested awkwardly. Lexi raised a brow for a brief moment, but quickly caught herself, returning to completely professional features.

"Of course. Should only take me a few moments," Lexi nodded. I let her get to work. I returned to my quarters, and sat on my couch, twiddling my thumbs as I anxiously waited for the doctor. Soon, she arrived, as promised. She sat down on the other end of the couch, sitting straight, and crossing one leg over the other. Willing to bet this is how she'd normally speak with her patients before she joined the Initiative.

"Is something troubling you?" she began.

"Er, no, doc. In fact, things are getting pretty good," I answered. "While waiting for the outpost earlier, Vetra invited me to climb a mountain, and at the top we… uh…" I began stuttering. Lexi moved to finish my sentence.

"Had sex?"

"No! No, we didn't. But, things were said, and… we kissed. And I… want to know what I need to do, or be careful of if I'm going to be dating a dextro," I asked awkwardly.

"I see. Well, Turian-Asari relationships were common long before Humanity made first contact, as were even Quarian-Asari relationships before their exile. In addition, some years after first contact, Human-Turian relationships began cropping up. So, you're not the first, but it's still wise to ask. The amount of saliva exchanged during kissing shouldn't be enough to cause a negative effect in either of you. And with SAM's help, I'm relatively certain that it shouldn't affect your system. Unless of course, you somehow find and drink a gallon of Turian saliva," Lexi ended with the joke.

"Well, that's a thought that might make me vomit," I remarked.

"As would the gallon," Lexi smirked.

"So, remember when I asked about thoughts on the crew? Well, what advice do you have for me with her now?" I continued.

"Relationship advice? Well, I told you that what she needs is some me-time? Since she spends so much caring for others?" Lexi reminded. "Give her that time. Treat her." My cheeks went red again.

"Well, that kinda leads to another question…" I muttered awkwardly.

"I did mean that you treat her in non-sexual ways, but I can still do the sex talk," Lexi stated, professionally. Pretty sure my cheeks went redder. "I imagine you have some measure of experience, so are you just asking about the risks, or are you asking what to do specifically for a Turian vagina?" Yep, cheeks went a lot redder.

"Uh, just the risks, I'll ask her the latter if we ever get to that point," I stuttered. Lexi nodded as she began her answer.

"If you're giving Vetra oral sex, what you get from that might cause a minor reaction. Not likely, but possible. If she orgasms, it will taste sweet, though try not to swallow any of it. It most likely will cause some kind of reaction later. Certainly not deadly, but uncomfortable. I don't know how much of a difference SAM will make, but I doubt he'd negate it entirely. But, if you 'train your body,' so to speak, with just the saliva, then your body should grow used to those proteins and not react. Negative effects normally only happen for those who begin their relationship with sex. Now, if Vetra performs oral sex on you, she must be careful. Turian teeth are sharp, after all. Though the length of their tongues can partially compensate. If you orgasm, and she swallows, it may cause a reaction in her depending on the amount. Though again, with the 'practice,' she may not. And if there are reactions in either of you, I can add a pill called Reversal to my stock," Lexi explained.

"Reversal?" I questioned, a bit eager for a respite from this. I imagine I was as red as Arcturus. Still, this explanation has been largely reassuring so far. The bit about Turian teeth made me cringe at the thought, but I already knew they had sharp teeth.

"It's a pill that was developed shortly before we left. It was marketed as being a way for food connoisseurs to safely sample the foods of other Chiralities, so long as they purged themselves a few hours later. Though, as you may expect, it also sold very well among cross-chirality couples. And the levels should pass quickly enough or just be small enough that a purge shouldn't be necessary," she answered.

"Huh, whadda ya know," I remarked. "So, any other risks?"

"There are the talons, though Vetra has the guards for both her hands and feet. And even then, if it was big enough a danger to hospitalize species with softer skin, such as Quarians, Humans, and Asari, then the numbers of those species in relationships with Turians would be far shorter than it is. There isn't a risk for either of you in vaginal or anal intercourse, so that's something you don't need to worry about. As for a Turian's plates? Their inner thighs lack plates, and instead have their soft skin. The waist, hips, buttocks, and the area surrounding the vagina also lack plates. Obviously, her abdomen on the other hand does have plates, though it has evolved to be smoother, and shouldn't scrape, scratch, or chafe your own chest. And as you've likely already seen, the inside of the arms also lacks plates. Everything else, you've seen," Lexi finished. Well, I never needed to be concerned about anything anal related in the first place. Never been eager to try that on a woman. Why? I don't want shit on my dick.

"So, those plates shouldn't be a problem then?"

"Perhaps a minor one if this was Vetra's first time with a non-Turian, though I am aware she has been in relationships with Asari before. She should have a good idea as to how to keep both of you comfortable," the doc confirmed.

"Alright, so this talk has been both enlightening, and highly embarrassing," I remarked. "Thanks, Lexi, can you go ahead and let me soak this all in?" I requested.

"Of course," she smiled, turning from professional doctor, to the friend. "And, I believe I neglected to say this, but I'm happy for both of you, and I wish you luck."


The Nomad came to a stop, having followed the roads, for once, to the south side of the new outpost, where the last of the pre-fabs, for now, had just landed. In the Nomad with me, was everyone who wanted to see it. Vetra, Liam, and Jaal, who was now feeling better after the talk with Lexi. Accepting it. Liam and Vetra were, of course, ignoring each other. The ride was silent, but it would likely have been silent anyway. The road branched off both further to the south, and a road going straight through the center of the outpost. Right now, I counted a total of four buildings, but only two were of the variant I'd consider 'large.' The one on the left of the outpost's southern border, and the one I suspect to be the main complex on the hill, against the shoreline. The other two smaller, two story pre-fabs were on opposite sides of the road, but connected via an overpass. There were automated turrets guarding the south road, and I could see some smaller AA guns on the roofs of the larger buildings. There were guards patrolling the rails and overpass, and I got a message on my Omni-tool.

As promised, I have scouts keeping an eye on all approaches to the outpost, watching for any signs of attack. They can call for Collective reinforcements at the touch of a button, and alert your own outpost just as quickly. The Outcasts may be leaderless, but they still bear a grudge against the Initiative. And against you. -Reyes.

Not surprised the Outcasts bear a grudge, but at least Reyes is keeping the promise. I wanted to snoop around the Outpost, but I know Addison wants to do our customary talk over the holo. As I suspected, the pre-fab on the shoreline of the lake was the main building. The holo waiting for me just inside the lower level. I pressed a few buttons, and the holographic figure of Addison appeared.

"Amazing. This may manage to piss off as many people as it feeds," Addison remarked.

"And I trust you're content with the results?"

"The results are what I care about at the end of the day. And the results are promising. But Kadara? Where the worst of our exiles staked their claim? You better be sure about this," Addison warned.

"It's my job to make these planets safe for colonization, Director. And that's exactly what I've been doing, and what I've done here. I wouldn't send these Colonists here if I wasn't confident in their safety. In addition, they're still our people. And they are plenty here who aren't as bad as you think," I crossed my arms over my chest.

"It's your call…" she murmured. "And the motivational address?"

"I won't lie," I began, my eyes ensuring Addison got the subtle message. "Kadara wasn't the easiest. I've seen people here pushed to extremes. But those extremes are going away. I've made sure of that, and we're going to stay. We didn't come to Andromeda because it was easy. And we're not leaving Kadara because it's hard."

"For posterity. You may want to speak with Christmas Tate, the mayor of the new outpost. Should be on the second floor," Addison suggested, and the call ended.

"She's certainly a fan of you," Liam remarked.

"As much as I'm a fan of Kadara," Jaal grumbled.

"You know, you don't have to come out and around when we're not in combat Jaal. You could stay on the ship," I hinted for our Angaran friend.

"I don't want to miss out, which I would be, here," Jaal retorted.

"Fair enough," I shrugged, leading the others upstairs. There were people working on setting up wires inside, and other technical necessities. Around the corner, along a window looking out to the sulfur lake, standing beside a couch set up near a bed, as if this was the mayor's less than private living quarters, was a man speaking with an advisor holding the data pad. The man heard our footsteps, and turned, his aide pausing. The man had black hair, tanned skin, and a fuzzy moustache that barely stretched beyond the corners of his lip.

"Well, if it isn't the Pathfinder," he greeted warmly, despite a gruff, gravelly voice. I almost expect him to throw on a cowboy hat, strap a six-shooter to his thigh, and call for the town's sheriff. "Welcome to Outpost Ditaeon," he reached out a hand. I shook it, and he continued. "Christmas Tate of Mining Company 07, at your service."

"Scott Ryder, pleasure. I'm sorry, but I have to ask. Is Christmas a nickname, or…?" I returned the greeting. Tate let out a hearty laugh.

"Afraid not. My old lady, Holiday Tate, had quite a sense of humor," he smiled.

"Think you'll continue the trend?" Liam asked with a grin.

"What trend?" Jaal asked.

"We'll see. So, to answer the question of your Angaran friend…" Tate trailed off, requesting a bit of help.

"Jaal," Jaal stated.

"To answer your question, Jaal, Christmas is the name of an old Human holiday. And with my mother being named Holiday, she thought, rightly so, that it would be funny to name me a holiday," he explained. Jaal nodded his understanding.

"So, things going well?" I asked.

"We only just set up, but no one's been shot in the back, which is more than I expected," Tate grumbled. "I don't like making deals with people flightier than ghosts."

"Yeah, I understand. With the options I was given though, the Collective seemed like the better choice. Hasn't been long enough to say whether I've been proven right or wrong," I remarked.

"True. I wasn't awake for the uprising, but I've read the reports on Sloane. Guess she wouldn't have dealt with us anyway. Better a deal for an outpost than none at all, I suppose," Tate shrugged.

"So, mining company 07. Must have been significant for you to still mention it," I made the suggested question clear.

"Everyone here who was a part of our original outpost block, so everyone minus a few guards, all came from the company together. Best damn Eezo miners on Mars till the ground dried up. They picked us because while you made the water potable, there's still plenty of sulfur in the bedrock. And we can use that to make fertilizer," Tate explained.

"Makes sense. What about Ditaeon. Mean something?" Liam asked.

"Inside joke among the company," Tate chuckled. "Temp name we came up with. It's an acronym. 'Deploy in the Ass end of Nowhere." Seems like that got at least a good chuckle out of everyone present. "Reminds me, here, our flag. Why don't you go hang it in that nice little bar next to the others huh?"

"I'll be sure to do that Tate. Good meeting you, and good luck," I grinned.

"Good meeting you too, Pathfinder. Good luck out there." We exited the building, following the catwalks to explore a bit. We ended up at the only other building on the east side of the outpost.

"Storehouse huh? Gonna tell the req officer what I've gotten for them," Vetra called out. Well, if I'm here to explore and meet people… We all walked in, a Turian man was sat at a desk, crates lined in the back. "Well, well, well, I'll be damned," Vetra chuckled.

"Nyx, I was wondering when you'd show up," the man remarked casually, leaning back in his chair.

"Guess this explains why you never sent me those regulators, Seneca," Vetra teased.

"Got busy with the move. But I set them aside for you," Seneca joked. Ok, feeling a tad bit protective here. Just gonna repress the urge to say anything. He must just be a friend to her, else she wouldn't have kissed me on that mountain. And it only happened today, so it's not like he knows. That look in his eyes. I recognize it. I've had that look. Stop it Scott, it's fine.

"Do you know everyone?" I chuckled, releasing some of the inner tension by letting something out.

"Dru used to work the stock rooms on the Nexus," Vetra explained.

"So, much to requisition right now?" I asked jokingly.

"Req officer is my official title, sure, but I'm happy taking care of any odd jobs that pop up," he shrugged. "Scrubbing, cooking, whatever I can do."

"Sure the others are thankful for the help," I remarked.

"Keeps me busy. I used to work the drill on Mars. Till I messed up my hand. Lucky I didn't lose it, but the nerves never healed right," Dru explained, struggling to form a fist with said hand.

"Got everything you need? Bought some supplies to give the Outpost," Vetra asked.

"Of course you did. Thanks. But yeah, got everything we need, and the Collective actually contacted me on our way. Got a few other things that should be coming. I swear they can get their hands on anything. They're even more reliable than you," Dru teased Vetra.

"Hey!" she smirked.

"Kidding, kidding," Dru held up his hands in mock defense. "No one's better than you, Nyx." Damn it Scott, stop yourself…

"Thanks," Vetra smiled, and then subtly, without any kind of show being made about it, so much better than I'd be able to, Vetra took my hand in hers and gave it a gentle squeeze. Pretty sure I heard Jaal let out a huff of air. He noticed. "Well, good seeing you, Dru. Those supplies should be arriving sooner or later." Dru was still smiling and then he looked down, his eyes locking on Vetra's hand clasped with mine. His features fell slightly, and he glanced at me. Our eyes met and there was a sad look in his as they darted away, unable to look at my own. I really regretted how I felt now. I know his position all too well. Whether he waited too long to act, or he acted, it failed, and then saw her with someone else later on, it doesn't matter. I've been in the shoes of both.

"Yeah, yeah… Good seeing you too, Nyx," he ended, masking whatever he was feeling. We left. And she was still holding my hand. No complaints.

"So, you do that because you read me, or you read him?" I asked quietly.

"Call it a bit of both. He's not a bad guy, but we just never spent that much time together," Vetra answered, "Glad you didn't do anything though. That would have just made him angry. And sad."

"Sangry?" I joked.

"Ugh, you're just like Sid," Vetra groaned.

"And yet you still kissed me on that mountain," I teased.

"Um, what?" Vetra laughed. "You kissed me, remember?"

"Sure, the first one. Then you pulled my head down and made out with me," I retorted.

"Oh, so that's how it's gonna be huh? Alright, then what was that poking my thigh?" Vetra remarked playfully.

"Oh fuck off, there's no fucking way you felt that through your armor and my own," I retorted. Shit, I just admitted to it.

"You're right, I didn't. But I know how men work. And you DID just confirm," Vetra teased.

"Uh, guys, should we leave?" Liam asked. Ah shit. Vetra and I both turned around. Liam just looked uncomfortable, while Jaal was smug. Extremely smug. Well, I think the 'secret' is out.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: So, hope you enjoyed that fluffy mess! So, just clarifying a few things that happened or were discussed during the chapter. That Reversal pill? Canon thing in the ME universe. Was revealed during one of those Cerberus News Network posts back around when ME2 came out. (Search the wiki.) And the stuff about Dextro/levo contact? Well, I'm taking organic chem, we've learned a bit about Dextro-Levo already, and the teacher has mentioned some other things on the side. That there are plenty that aren't a guaranteed death, plenty that you won't even react to. And those that you would react to, your body can get used to. As for if an Avian species that looks like space dinosaurs and is a Dextro has saliva and vaginal juices that would poison a levo? Mass Effect and my story are both works of Sci-Fi. Fiction. I can make it this way if I want it to. Besides, I think I'm pretty goddamn spot on lore wise with everything else. Just you wait and see when we get to the Trilogy, where there's much more lore that I can use than Andromeda, where a pretty fair amount is still speculation. And, just to go ahead and advertise it again, join my Discord Server! Download the app, friend/message me, and I'll send you a link! My Discord ID is MakoGT#5797